Jewelry Care and Info
Read all about sterling silver and gold filled metals as well as what authentic turquoise is, and how to care well for your jewelry so it can become an heirloom piece.
Sterling Silver
Commonly referred to as ‘925 silver’, sterling silver is an alloy metal, consisting of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. Copper increases the hardness in the metal, thus increasing the durability. It is one of the most common types of metal for jewelry due to its affordability and shine. Sterling silver is also considered a hypoallergenic metal.
Due to the copper content in sterling silver, it can tarnish and may develop a natural patina. Heat and moisture will accelerate tarnish. However, it can be removed easily. Refer to our jewelry care section below for ways to prevent tarnish and care for your jewelry.
Gold-Filled
Gold-filled jewelry is an affordable, yet durable alternative to solid gold. Gold-filled allows you to incorporate the timeless look of yellow gold, without the price tag of solid gold jewelry.Gold-filled is made by adding a layer of solid gold to the outside of a metal core (usually brass). This creates an outside surface that is tarnish resistant with only gold being displayed. Most of our jewelry has a 14k gold layer, but 12k is also common. Legally, the total weight of a gold-filled item must contain at least 5% solid gold in order to be considered gold-filled. If properly maintained, gold-filled jewelry will last several years.
Authentic Turquoise
Turquoise is a gem that has been loved and used for thousands of years. All of the turquoise in our jewelry is real and genuine, mined, cut and shaped, then shipped to us to be set into each handcrafted piece.
Turquoise is a mineral that is formed in the cracks of rocks by water containing copper and aluminum. Copper is what gives turquoise its blue/green hue over time. Turquoise is found and mined in several western states such as Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, as well as China and Iran. Once mined, turquoise is cut and shaped by our trusted and esteemed lapidaries. Sometimes, stones will be stabilized during the processing. This adds strength to the stone without compromising the natural beauty. These will be considered ‘stabilized’ stones. Stabilizing a stone fills pores with an epoxy or resin, thus helping to preserve the turquoise. Natural turquoise stones are the most expensive as they are unmodified. Turquoise in its natural form, however is porous and soft and can have a tendency to change color over time if not treated with care.
Jewelry Care
╬ Dry metal is happy metal; take your piece off before showering, going to the pool, or working out.
╬ Avoid contact with chemicals such as perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products.
╬ When not being worn, store in a cool and dry place. A plastic baggie works great!
╬ Don’t be afraid to wear your piece daily! Your natural body oils prevent tarnish.
╬ While tarnish is natural, it is not permanent. Periodic cleaning may be needed.
╬ Use your provided polish cloth to clean and shine your jewelry. For stubborn tarnish, you can use most jewelry cleaners, or make your own with a solution of water, mild soap, and a sponge.
╬ If your piece contains turquoise, all of the above applies. Take extra care to avoid any blows to the stone as that can cause chipping or cracking, or a loss of the stone. Remember that turquoise is a natural gemstone meaning its color may change over time, adding to its character and beauty.
